An Israeli Soldier to American Jews

It’s time to wake up.

As a young Israeli who had just completed five years of service in the IDF, I looked forward to my new job educating people in the Pacific Northwest about Israel. I was shocked, however, by the anti-Israel bigotry and hostility I encountered, especially in the greater Seattle area, Oregon, and Berkeley. I had been very liberal, a member of the leftist Zionist party, Meretz, but the anti-Semitism and hatred for Israel that I have seen in the U.S. has changed my outlook personally and politically.

The anti-Semitism and hatred for Israel that I have seen in the U.S. has changed my outlook.

As part of my work as an educator at StandWithUs, between January and May this year, I traveled to college campuses, high schools, and churches sharing the history of modern Israel. I also shared about my experience growing up in the Jewish state, and about my family. I also always spoke about my military service as an officer in an IDF COGAT unit that attends to the needs of Palestinian civilians who are not involved in the conflict and promotes Palestinian civil society. Each time I would speak and take questions for an hour or more. I have shared my personal story with over 16,000 people at many, many college campuses and high schools, including UC Berkeley, Stanford, the University of Washington, Seattle University and many others. Many of those to whom I spoke were supportive, friendly, and open to hearing about my Israel. But, sadly, far too many were not.

When I served as a soldier in the West Bank, I got used to having ugly things said to me, but nothing prepared me for the misinformation, demonization of Israel, and the gut-wrenching, anti-Israel, anti-Semitic hostility expressed by many students, professors, church members, and even some high school students right here in the Pacific Northwest.

I was further shocked by how unaware the organized Jewish community is and how little they are actually doing to counter this rising anti-Semitism, which motivated me to write this article.

This new form of bigotry against Israel has been called the “new anti-Semitism,” with “Israel” replacing “Jew” in traditional anti-Semitic imagery and canards, singling out and discriminating against the Jewish state, and denying the Jewish people alone the right to self-determination. The new anti-Semitism is packaged in the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign (BDS), which claims to champion Palestinian rights though its real goal is to erode American support for Israel, discredit Jews who support Israel, and pave the way for eliminating the Jewish state. One of BDS’ central demands is the “complete right of return” for all the descendants of the original Palestinian refugees, subtle language that means the end of Israel as the Jewish homeland because it would turn Israel into a Palestinian-Arab majority state.

It is surprising that an extremist group like BDS is ever taken seriously, but BDS advocates have found receptive audiences in some circles. Their campaigns are well organized and in many cases, well financed. They have lobbied universities, corporations, food co-ops, churches, performing artists, labor unions, and other organizations to boycott Israel and companies that do business with Israel. But even if these groups don’t agree to treat Israel as a pariah state, the BDS activists manage to spread their anti-Israel misinformation, lies and prejudice simply by forcing a debate based on their false claims about Israel.

To give you a taste of the viciousness of the BDS attacks, let me cite just a few of the many shocking experiences I have had. At a BDS event in Portland, a professor from a Seattle university told the assembled crowd that the Jews of Israel have no national rights and should be forced out of the country. When I asked, “Where do you want them to go?” she calmly answered, “I don’t care. I don’t care if they don’t have any place else to go. They should not be there.” When I responded that she was calling for ethnic cleansing, both she and her supporters denied it.

And during a presentation in Seattle, I spoke about my longing for peace between Israel and the Palestinians. When I was done, a woman in her 60’s stood up and yelled at me, “You are worse than the Nazis. You are just like the Nazi youth!” A number of times I was repeatedly accused of being a killer, though I have never hurt anyone in my life. On other occasions, anti-Israel activists called me a rapist. The claims go beyond being absurd – in one case, a professor asked me if I knew how many Palestinians have been raped by IDF forces. I answered that as far as I knew, none. She triumphantly responded that I was right, because, she said, “You IDF soldiers don’t rape Palestinians because Israelis are so racist and disgusted by them that you won’t touch them.”

Such irrational accusations are symptomatic of dangerous anti-Semitism. Yet, alarmingly, most mainstream American Jews are completely oblivious to this ugly movement and the threat it poses. They seem to be asleep, unaware that this anti-Jewish bigotry is peddled on campuses, by speakers in high schools, churches, and communities, and is often deceptively camouflaged in the rhetoric of human rights.

The American Jewish community and its leaders are not providing a united front to combat this latest threat. Unfortunately, this repeats a pattern of Jewish communal groups failing to unite in a timely way to counter threats against us individually and as a community.

Shockingly, a small but very vocal number of Jews actively support BDS. They often belong to organizations that prominently include “Jewish” in their names, like Jewish Voice for Peace, to give cover to BDS and the anti-Semitism that animates it. A question that we, as a Jewish community must ask ourselves, is whether it is ever appropriate to include and accept Jews who support BDS and directly or indirectly advocate the ultimate elimination of the Jewish State of Israel.

I think it is not.

My experiences in America have changed me. I never expected to encounter such hatred and lies. I never believed that such anti-Semitism still existed, especially in the U.S. I never knew that the battlefield was not just Gaza, the West Bank, and hostile Middle Eastern countries wanting to destroy Israel and kill our citizens and soldiers. It is also here in America, where a battle must be waged against prejudice and lies.

I implore American Jews: do more.

Israel cannot fight this big battle alone. If you are affiliated with a Jewish organization, let it know you want it to actively, openly and unequivocally oppose the BDS campaign and those who support it. Inform yourself, your friends and families, by visiting websites of organizations like StandWithUs, Jewish Virtual Library, AIPAC, AJC and others that will update you and provide information about BDS and anti-Semitism.

I urge the organized Jewish community and its members to wake up and stand up for the Jewish state of Israel, and for all it represents, and for all it works to achieve.

Featured at Aish.com:

About the Author

Hen Mazzig is the Campus Coordinator for StandWithUs' Pacific Northwest chapter in the United States. Hen was in the IDF for almost five years. As a lieutenant in the COGAT unit, he worked as an intermediary between the Israeli Defense Forces and the Palestinian Authority, the UN, and the many non-governmental organizations that work in the West Bank. Hen's unit was responsible for overseeing the construction of medical facilities, schools, environmental projects, roads, water-related infrastructure, and for security coordination with the Palestinian Security Forces, part of the Palestinian Authority.

Visitor Comments: 80

(55)
Gina,
February 4, 2015 9:14 PM

Dear Han,

So sorry that you have to experience such a negative reactionespecially when you are doing so much good. Ignore the evilout there and continue with your RIGHTEOUS mission for many many years. You have many supporters out there.May G-d reward you for your hard work and devotion.

(54)
denise dudley,
July 28, 2014 7:10 PM

the current Israel-Gaza conflict

I am a non-jew,who finds the anti-semitic rants going on in Europe,and other areas,very disturbing! I am an American,living in Texas. I want the Jewish people everywhere to know that we're not all anti-semitic. there is so much violence going on in Syria,the Ukraine,and Gaza,that it is stressful to watch the news. I just want peace,period!

(53)
Andrew Pollard,
June 25, 2014 3:11 AM

I wish to clarify and appologize.

My dear Mr Mazziq, I wish to apologize on the behalf of the majority of us in the US that don't feel as the far left you encountered on the campuses do. You see, there has been an awkward tendency of those of the far end to believe as though Israel is an irrational and bigoted State, gleefully trampling innocent Palestinians as it goes about conquering territory in the name of,,,,,,and that's where their argument usually ends. There is no real logic, no honest sense of what is going on and what its genesis is with this small group that appeared so large to you when you were here in my country and they tend to gather on college campuses as that's the only space that will bother with them. These people are not respected nor do they hold any major prominence here. They do, however, tend to be common in academia I'm sorry to say as there is a phenomenon here called 'tenure.' This is a contractual issue between many professors and their universities that prevents them from being fired for most any reason outside committing assault on a student and they're allowed to spew hate speech as much as they please and are quite spoiled. Please, don't think anti-Jewish sentiment is common here. It's an isolated problem within small groups of the far right and the far left, as you encountered.

(52)
Allen,
June 16, 2014 7:22 AM

God bless Israel

Israel is the only democratic country in the Middle East, where everyone has rights irrespective of their background. I saw it a noin action - as a non Jew - when I visited Israel a few years ago.

Those who hate Israel are either ignorant, confused, or suffer from hatred.

(51)
Ruven golan,
June 15, 2014 8:08 PM

Be strong

Keep up the good work

(50)
doron,
October 28, 2013 5:28 AM

Take that in mind we are not Jewish we are Israel

Dear friend, If you check in depth the "Jewish" entry in the Bible you'll find that it appears only once in the context which is familiar to everyone today.In the book of Zechariah. chapter 8 paragraph 23 and I quote: “In those days ten people from all languages and nations will take firm hold of one Jew by the hem of his robe and say, ‘Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.’”So my friend you have nothing to be afraid of, we are not alone in this world. excel in that and you'll join to those who believe to be a part of the world's salvation and for all of those who hates us for not accomplishing our mission and bring them to be shed under the Creator's light.So, only when this bond will build the world will change.

Anonymous,
October 30, 2013 8:01 PM

Doron

Doron Habibi,may I ask if you were ever in Eilat back in 1981/2?I remember a Doron from those days. He had a friend who was a tzanchan (paratrooper)

(49)
jinjie,
October 25, 2013 11:32 AM

anti-semitism now is like a cancer of the brain of the society...i believe there is a remedy to that..just educate them in the truth.

(48)
David,
October 24, 2013 3:08 PM

Wow.

That's really awful, and the lunacy of the Jew-hating left in America is alarming. Happily, most Americans are very much pro-Israel. Still, the author's point is well-taken-- the American Jewish community (and, frankly, the American Christian community which has, in some cases, been far more solid on this issue than the Jews) should be more active in defending Israel. Americans in general should feel a strong kinship with the one western style democracy in the region.

(47)
Aviel,
October 24, 2013 12:32 PM

us support for Isarel is very broad and very shallow so can change quickly

In Europe today they view the creation of the modern Jewish State as a mistake resulting largely from guilt over the holocaust. That mind set is making inroads within the USA. Sadly many Jews are uncomfortable with Israel's policies without understanding the real choices it faces. It seems to me that if a two Sate solution was possible it would have been implemented already. Most Israeli Jews were and still are ready for it ,but not as a stepping stone to the elimination of oneJewish State which seem to be the only way it is acceptable to it's enemies.In America Israel is a source of discomfort or even shame to many liberal Jews particularly young and Non Orthodox. It seems to me that needs to change before any change can be expected elsewhere. Birthright,Aish, Chabad, NJOP and more are working hard but it's an uphill battle.May they be blessed with success.

orlov,
October 24, 2013 7:01 PM

US support of Isral is deeper than suspected

Its true, Israel's situation needs to better conveyed to theUS masses. Their entire geopolitical situation. A democratic nation in a vast sea of medieval, third-world, and horrifically-led countries. I notice that the soldier spoke to people in very liberal states, and poorly-educated students, and only "politically-correct" faculty. He would observe a different mindset in a majority of the states in the US.

Amy,
November 4, 2013 4:07 AM

Be careful who you accuse

Yes, the PNW is liberal. The students at Berkeley, UW, Seattle U are NOT poorly educated. They are misinformed. Do you live in the PNW?? I do. Be careful what you say if you don't live in the PNW. (California is not considered the PNW by the way)

(46)
sharona,
October 24, 2013 5:49 AM

I agree that we need to be united against the insanity and stand strong with our good values and faith. We have G-d on our side

(45)
Anonymous,
October 23, 2013 6:21 AM

second part

What always ends up complicating things for Jews is that through hard work and brainpower (for some things as I said) they acquire influence disproportionate to their numbers. As it can not be otherwise, Jews use that power to advance what they rightfullysconsider their interests. Unfortunately those interests do not always match the interests of the majority of non Jews. For example, the interests of many Jews to turn the US or Europe into multicultural societies denies the AngloEuropean majority to run the country they have set up and made to prosper along the lines of their beliefs. This fact makes millions of them very angry. The outcome is one of two; the dissappearance of the US as a relatively well organized nation along more or less AngloGermanic lines or have a country along the lines of mexico or africa. Nothing wrong with Mexico or Africa except they do not function adequately as any Mexican or African Jew can tell you.
To complicate things more for Jews is US politicians for Israel. Of course the Jews have the right to pressure US politicians to support Israel, except that if it is done through direct influence of the politicians without getting popular support then you are in dangerous territory as many will rightfully feel that bypasses democracy. Yes just when big pharma does. Except that here you are talking about using the US military and American lives. So our Israeli soldier is right there is lots of antisemitism in the US, it is like a balloon become ever more inflated until... Jews better than anyone know the rest as so many of their religious practices remind them.

John Winlow,
October 23, 2013 5:00 PM

An excellent analysis. Minority groups will always be viewed with suspicion by the majority, The more so if they are successful.

True Jewish interests when dictated by Torah not only match the best interests of non Jews, promoting those interests is the reason that Jews exist. To bring the world to the realization that there is a G-d and he has given instructions as to how to live to perfect this world.If that was understood by Jews and others which seems to me to be the mission of this site and Aish in general it would be a cause for celebration. Jews are not looking for the US military to fight their battles. They just don't want to be prevented from defending themselves. When the US ,as happened recently forces Israel to release terrorist prisoners with blood on their hands[which the US would never do itself ] in return for nothing it shows the great limitations of the Israel lobby.

(44)
Carlos,
October 23, 2013 6:19 AM

it will never ever end no matter what Jews do, unless they dissappear

Antisemitism will never ever end. It will even outlast the jews.
The cause is very simple. The rest of humanity is as tribal as the Jews. They need to feel secure a territory and a set of socias customs and beliefs to call their own. Jews in the diaspora never seem to be able to understand that. Jews are very stupid in this area. A well known,Einstein,said something along the lines of: "madness is to keep doing the same things over and over and expect different results". Since the Pharaohs, tha is since the beginning of Judaism, antisemitism is a constant which periodically flares up violently. The Holocaust is just the most terrible case. Jews seem to believe the memory of the Holocaust in books, movies and memorials will somehow protect them. There are few thoughts more dramatically stupid than that one. Non Jews do not like Jews, period, just like Jews do not like non Jews,just like Buddists do not like Hindus or whatever.

(43)
Lovely,
October 23, 2013 5:29 AM

How did this happen coz too much of freedom can anyone of these people go to the Middle East and live for a day without seeing the cruelty melted to the expatriates ,the money from the oil flows into the universities and almost all the countries and that is what talks what a shame where people just can't see or think .the Israelis has to respond thru any other ways that seem fit or military action .but never forget Israel will have the last laugh .

(42)
Grandma Tamie,
October 23, 2013 12:42 AM

I am proud to support Israel and yes anti-Semitism

Being Jewish in America is difficult, so glad someone else sees it. Our administration puts down Israel. Americans are tired of fighting wars and it hurts our economy so as a result the Jews are getting blamed again. My son, his wife and child live in Israel so my heart is there as well as the us. Keep up the good fight and hang in there you are loved by Americans like me.

(41)
Anonymous,
October 23, 2013 12:39 AM

Sadly, anti semitism and anti Israel feelings are not dead!

The ignorance of realities in Israel and the Arab areas is widespread, especially in the North West. Polls show that the majority of the American people are pro Israel. However, anti semitism has always been here and many young people have been infected by Arab propaganda. The East Coast is far better and also the South.

(40)
Smady,
October 22, 2013 7:44 PM

Important message for Jews who have never lived outside of Israel

This message is not just important for Jews living in the US, but also for the Jews of Israel who seem to think that antisemitism is more a thing of the past. Sometimes I watch the Israeli news here in NY and it appalls me as to what is going on in Israel, so much of the overzealous leftists are completely oblivious to the fact that Jews still feel isolated and unsafe (albeit much less) even here in NY where there was recently an incident of numerous swastikas painted on over 18 cars in Queens. If these leftists stepped outside of their homeland and really saw what was going on I think they would change their minds very quickly. It seems to me that many Israelis take for granted the land of Israel because they haven't experienced much else, or they just don't realize what's really going on. Our number one priority should be to protect the land and the people, because ultimately there is no other place for us.

(39)
Anonymous,
October 22, 2013 7:05 PM

The South

I am so ashamed that anyone in America would treat you so poorly. I support Israel and so do many of my friends. Perhaps if you had visited the south you would have experienced better treatment. Here in South Carolina we love Israel and her people. Do not feel badly, the north is often discriminatory towards southerners as well. Our country is becoming very divided on many issues.

(38)
D'Ann,
October 22, 2013 6:31 PM

I stand with Israel

I am so sad so many in the US have taken untruths and used them against Israel and her people..there is the same blood running thru my veins that cries out Abba Forgive them for they don't know what they are doing...Thank you for your years of IDF Service..I am older now but if I was younger I would serve..I will always support Israel.
k

(37)
Andrew Stiller,
October 22, 2013 3:57 PM

So sad but true

It shouldn't come as a surprise that the world views us this way. Sadder still is the realization that much of this hatred is fueled by liberal Jews who would sooner throw our people to the wolves before standing toe to toe with us in the defense of Israel and the larger Jewish community. The world needs more brave voices like this courageous soldier.

(36)
Anonymous,
October 22, 2013 2:43 PM

Media to blame

I have seen anti-Semitism in America and it shocked me as well. The lying media is largely to blame, the educators in our schools who are not telling the true story, and organizations who accept large donations from parties with interests that influence what they write in their articles. With such a machine behind anti-Semitic education, everyone needs to ask, "How can I help?"

(35)
shlomo,
October 22, 2013 2:33 AM

everyone must do their part

IMHO whoever is able to combat anti-israelism and anti-semitism MUST DO SO!Israel should send jewish soldiers to EVERY COLLEGE IN THE WORLD!!!

(34)
Steve,
October 21, 2013 6:01 PM

Please come speak @ my synagogue!

I agree. The only way to wake up the American Jewish people, is to have articles like this one and too have soldiers like yourself come to congregations and tell the membership whats going on in this country.

(33)
Bill,
October 21, 2013 3:01 PM

We stand with Israel

Mr. Mazzig, I want to congratulate you, on an honest assessment of The Left in the United States. It shocks me when liberal Jewish people stand by an ideology that is ostracizing Israel. However don't for one second think that the entire country is against you. There is strong support for your country, your people and for the IDF in the United States. Keep up your work, just as Rabbi Eckstein is. WE STAND WITH ISRAEL!

(32)
Albert Hache,
October 21, 2013 1:36 PM

Sad but true !

Same situation in Europe and in most countries of the world. The palestinians have won the propaganda war. In France, a courageous journalist ( Pierre Jourde “Israël est un coupable idéal” in the Nouvel Observateur) has expressed views similar to those contained in your very important call , but he remains the exception.

Barbara Rubin,
October 21, 2013 3:10 PM

The Real History Resolves some of the conFlict

These comments might be assisted with a brief review of how the nation of Israel became the territory of Palestine. When the Roman Empire had it's final say in the independent existence of a Jewish nation, they changed the name of the large entity called Israel to Philastinea (after the Philistines whose existence was still recalled by Rome) which later transformed itself into the word Palestine. It never had any independence and was administered by various other empires and nations like the Ottomans and then Britain (while other portions fell into French hands). Britain called it 'trans-Jordan' and part of that became Jordan under a monarch from the Saudi family of rulers. The rest remained Palestine which had always had Jews and Arabs in residence. Jewish Palestinians and Arab Palestinians lived together conducting business and a little farming in the marshy, malaria filled region until 1948 when Israel's name was restored to a part of that area.

Once history is clarified, the existence of Israel is easier to trace back to the beginning. Now the rights of Israeli Arabs and Palestinian Arabs must be protected alongside the Jewish Israelis and Jewish Palestinians.

Antonio Perez,
October 21, 2013 3:56 PM

I agree with Albert

I completely agree. I'm shocked that the Palestinian view is unassailable but the Israeli view is approached as lies and untruths. People seem to want to hear fabrications of hatred rather than truth and righteousness. I'm not saying Israel is perfect or all Jews are above judgement. What I am saying is the anti-Jewish, anti-Israel hatred is appalling. I believe I will aways support Israel and never subscribe to anti-semitism. As HaShem told Abraham, "He who touches you, touches the apple of my eye" and "I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you". Enough said.

(31)
Kenan Moss,
October 21, 2013 12:24 PM

Thank you Hen

I myself am troubled by the "left's" swing to the extreme right and how well it is being camouflaged. As Jews we must inform ourselves of the history of our people: we must stop being nice. I hurt a very dear friend of mine by answering him truthfully. He is a Catholic priest and asked the religion of those who planned and executed "The Final Solution" The majority were Catholics, I said and the rest were Lutherans. Unless we tell these people, that from the times of "Saint Cyril" up to and including the "Last Pogrom",which was in Poland after the war, when upstanding Poles slaughtered survivors from the camps, the murderers of our people have been Christians, there will be no end to this tragedy. Only the truth produces solutions: fairytales lead to the next hatefest.

(30)
Daisy,
October 21, 2013 11:42 AM

Israel have so Sao more

When we needed some madrichim from Israel here in Brazil we received the worst one, it was terrible to work with them and antil now even in the delegation they are nort good enoght we say, here that Israel have to teach them ahoy to speak it is the worst propagananda in the world, the don t know how to do marketing, to show to the world how is Israel and the tools that have done. We hope that things can change tks daisy.

(29)
Saul Pillai,
October 21, 2013 5:55 AM

Keep up the good work

Dear Mr. Mazzig,Thank you for this sharing. I don’t live in the West but in a Muslim country and I’m familiar with cries of boycotting etc. of anything Israeli or Jewish. I say to you, “Keep up the good work”. For each person you talk to, you are planting a seed in their conscience. Tell them the truth and I know many do not want to face nor admit the truth. I don’t blame people for being misinformed, but I blame countries who consistently misinform their people. I blame religions that consistently claim to be peaceful but preach in war language.I am a Christian and for many years Christian citizens in my country were not allowed to go on pilgrimages to Israel. Many of us had to do it ‘undercover’ via Jordan. Only recently we were allowed ‘temporary’ rights to a pilgrimage. Israel, keep up the good work. You have supporters (albeit silent) in many countries you least suspect.Shalom

(28)
Crystal,
October 21, 2013 5:30 AM

Love for Israel

Please don't judge all of us for the actions and opinions of a few short-sighted individuals. We love and support Israel and pray for your country daily. Please accept my apologies for any hurt feelings you may have experienced. God Bless Israel!

Shoshana - Jerusalem,
October 21, 2013 12:22 PM

kind comment

Thank you for expressing your love and support of Israel. But just two things: 0ne- there are unfortunately more than just a "few" such individuals, and two- you are innocent and cannot apologize for someone else. The guilty one has to do the apologizing and only the victim can forgive him. How can you apologize for the his hurt feeling when you are not the one who hurt them? You are innocent and they remain guilty. Anyway, thank you for your kindness.

(27)
Ken,
October 21, 2013 5:08 AM

The American Left

Very sad, that the Democrats and the 'left wing' left so many of us behind, betrayed not only Israel, but so many of the great virtues of America. In their quest for equality and social justice, they lost sight of the importance of freedom, liberty, and principle. They lost reality in search of utopia and so many of my jewish friends/family have been 'hyjacked' in this mentality which is essentially very closed minded, very autocratic. I voted for my first Republican Presidential Candidate, did so with pride. Hope that we regain sanity in our leadership, both sides, with respect for all rights, even those we don't agree with, that includes Israel, the home of Arabs, Jews, BaHa'is, Christians, all living with total freedom--oh yeah, it is not perfect. Sorry. In the Arab countries, Jews are NOT allowed to live (in most)..

Leslie,
October 21, 2013 1:01 PM

Respect for both sides

Ken, where is your respect for both sides? You judge people who don't vote Republican like you. Why do you assume a Democrat is anti-Israel? Perhaps it's you that is shortsighted and intolerant. The Hewish vmumity is more complex than you describe it.

Mike,
October 24, 2013 8:22 PM

Leslie, you are wrong!

Leslie!

You might be right about the fact that not all Democrats are anti Israel... Yet what is true, is the simple fact that the left leaning mindset is nothing less then an illness! In practice, nothing that this ideology brings about could be accredited for anything constructive, positive or progressive, as they all claim to represent. The Carter's, the obama's and their likes have ruined absolutely everything good that we had left!

Anonymous,
November 4, 2013 4:13 AM

stick to the issue

Stick to the issue at hand and stop blaming the "left". Our congregation is liberal and very pro-Israel.

Ed Right Thing.,
October 21, 2013 1:32 PM

Truth evasion, art of the betrayers and fools.

How sad the world is today!Reality and truth have vanished.Hate and drug culture has filled the vacuum.

(26)
A J Singer,
October 21, 2013 3:43 AM

AntiSemitism in America

The time has come for Jews to organize and use the media to counter the prevailing prejudice against Israel through an ever presents of the truth about Israel. Just as the Voice of America broke through the Iron Curtain to present the truth about America and freedom, Israel and American Jews must constantly bombard the world with the truth or people will only believe the only information they read or hear. The truth does not just happen. It must be told. Anti-semitism is a cancer and must be stopped at every instance. If ignored, it will only get worse.

rachel,
October 22, 2013 10:17 PM

israel needs better pr

I have never understood why the Israeli government does not have a good public relations firm getting out its message. Israeli spokesmen seem to always preach toughness, but they would do better talking about victimization when the country is attacked. Israelis then wonder why ignorant people think the country is cruel.

(25)
Laurie,
October 21, 2013 3:15 AM

We support Israel whole heartedly

I wish I could apologize for the assinine things that were said to you in the US. It is disgusting. All I can say is my family, my synagogue, and my community are enormous fans and supporters of Israel. Please keep sharing your experiences here.

(24)
Anonymous,
October 21, 2013 12:46 AM

Truth is a frustrating thing to find these days

I'm sorry your experience was so hurtful. It is hurtful as a citizen of this country to experience any discrimination toward any faith. Our country was founded on freedom of faith. However, many are feeling helpless against the Big Money propaganda machine being pedalled through our "news" media. Many people know they are hearing biased views but feel helpless. Many who have stood with Israel and have taken stands on other issues have been booted off the air. Most of us have to be very resourceful to access multiple media sources to get the truth.

(23)
roxanne,
October 20, 2013 11:47 PM

Hen - you are absolutely correct in your assessment of what is happening. Thank you for having the courage and love for Israel to speak out. United with Israel is also an excellent site for information and action. I would also encourage folks to watch an excellent video on Aish that features Dr. Mordechai Kedar. (Its titled "Our Man on Al Jazeera) May HaShem bless you, the people of Israel, and Yerushalayim.

(22)
Dikla,
October 20, 2013 11:45 PM

Shocked Israeli Soldier in the USA

I think you would have alleviated some of the shock if you first did some practice runs at Tel Aviv University, Ben Gurion University, Haifa University along with many of the other schools and colleges in Israel. It is unfortunate that even in Israel the Anti-Israel bigotry is not only alive and well but thriving. Israelis do themselves no favor when they feel a need to give both sides of the story. The Arab side is well published, Israel and Israelis should spend their time telling only the Israeli version of events. More so when this is simply telling the truth. No revisionism. Hen, good luck to you on your travels, you are doing a great service to Israel and the Jews of the world, but this should be done at home (Israel) as well.

(21)
Scott Noren (Shlomo),
October 20, 2013 11:17 PM

invitation to come speak

i will sponsor a Shabbos at Chabad if you come speak...lets talk...Dr. Scott Noren find me at Ithaca Oral Surgery and Implant Center in Ithaca, NY online at Google..call my office

(20)
Anonymous,
October 20, 2013 10:40 PM

Hen,like Primeminister Begin always dreamed of that all jewish people in the world should stay together it becomes more and more a nightmare. Too many rich American Jews differentiate themselves from the Israelis, one of my jewish friend was even telling me that some Jews coping the Nazi - method he called them Nazi-Jews - how sad, how bad, but when it comes to money things change.How many times even the American Jews backstopped on Israel's policy.If Israel would not had these brave leaders the world would be today what it will be in 10 years, but neither American jew or regular American will understand....

(19)
Shoshana,
October 20, 2013 10:11 PM

Reality Check

The Pacific Northwest is very liberal. There are much more positive attitudes toward Jews & Israel in the mid-west and the south. At some point, this may change as well. G-d did say He would gather us from the north, south, east & west back to the land of our fathers. I hope it does not take another rise of Nazism to wake us from our collective slumber.

Anonymous,
November 4, 2013 4:17 AM

Liberal?

To be liberal does not mean to be anti-Israel. I am from the Pacific NW and from a liberal congregation. We are pro-Israel. The south tells me that I am going to hell, hardly positive. Where I live now, I have experienced no anti-Semitism. Stop stereotyping all people and Jews that live in the pacific NW because of a group of students that attended a rally.

(18)
Anonymous,
October 20, 2013 9:09 PM

Excellent and informative, an eye opener for many.

Israeli gov't must sent out individuals with excellent language skills across the USA and other countries. Especially to colleges and universities. Without a massive PR compaigne little will change. As an Orthodox Jew I believe that increased observance will be most helpful as well.

(17)
Mel Kaplan,
October 20, 2013 9:02 PM

Vayera: Has the world forgotten what Hashem did to Sodom?

Never formally eulogized, American Jewry's 'yiddisher kupp'. died decades ago. Delivering his "We Will Bury You" speech at the United Nations, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev banged his shoe on the lectern with one hand, waving with the other to his gang of U.S. college administrators and professors.

Practicing Gradualism, their slow indoctrination of western civilization has filled the heads of most with Utopian, Liberal Socialist-Progressive claptrap. A new world mindset that equates Israeli and American benevolence with weakness lsees them as the last holdouts against the New World Order.. The Zionist-Socialist zeal that recreated the modern State cannot make peace with a dumbed-down world, now propagandized to complete Hitler's Final Solution. As fluent in Hebrew as it is, is modern Israel so blinded it cannot see the Hand of Hashem completing His Plan?

(16)
Eric-Odessit,
October 20, 2013 7:40 PM

Antisemitism comes from the Left

Yes, it is time for my fellow Jews in the US to wake up and finally realize that the most vile Antisemitism comes from the Left and leftist ideologies like Nazism and Communism. Whenever Jews support the Left, the Left eventually turns on them. I've seen it time and again. The American Conservative movement, on the other hand, stands for individual liberty and responsibility, and always stands for Israel. It is time to recognize that.Eric.

(15)
Anonymous,
October 20, 2013 7:27 PM

Do you tell your audiences...?

Do you ever point out that the "original Palestinian refugees" referred to by one of your attackers have mostly died out? Do you point out that real refugees the world over are defined as people forced from their place of birth, unlike the vast majority of so-called "Palestinian " refugees actually living in the place of their birth. Do you ever point out that they became "refugees" when they left Israel at it's birth to help the armies poised to attack and destroy her, and that having failed they were stuck outside Israel's borders? Do you point out that the British who, when mandated by the League Of Nations (now the UN) to create a home for Palestine's Jews on the west of the Jordan river failed to do so, and in fact barred Jews from entry during the Nazi period while encouraging hundreds of thousands of Arabs to migrate to the area reserved for Jewish Palestinians ? Do you tell them that in 1948 the UN defined as "Palestinian" any Arab who had been living in the area for just two years. Yes: any migrant worker who had been there twenty-four months, his great-grandchildren are now the pretext of the current ant-Jewish tide sweeping the campuses of America. Does your audience know that prior to that unfulfilled British mandate to set aside 22% of Palestine for it's Jews, Britain sectioned off 78% of the formerly Turkish Province of Palestine exclusively for Arab Palestinians, calling it Trans-Jordan, now ethnically cleansed Jordan where it is illegal for a Jew to reside, while one million Arabs have full Israeli citizenship ? Does your audience know that Israel was founded by Jewish Palestinians? Please tell them. Please let them know that while there has been a Jewish presence there for three thousand years, and a Jewish majority in the 1900 Jerusalem census, there has never in all of history has there been an Arab Palestinian state - no coin, no postage stamp, nothing. Please tell them - and yes, tell some of our own less informed Jews.

(14)
Straski,
October 20, 2013 7:22 PM

Not as bad as you think

Take a look at some phenomenal youtube video that is just awesome and it will get negative reviews. You can't please everyone and there are jerks and imbeciles at all levels of intelligence -even college professors. You can't judge American direction and beliefs by a few nutcases because people with bizarre ideas are just like the poor - we will always have them with us.

(13)
Paul O.,
October 20, 2013 6:07 PM

Unfortunaly this BDS spread the same message of hatred in my country Belgium. They are leftist jews who help and encourage it.

(12)
Rose,
October 20, 2013 5:57 PM

anti-semitism will never go away; ignorance spews inside the undeveloped soul with generations of hatred and bigotry. G-d must have wanted us to "fight the etternal fight" even though we know that there will always be bloodshed and never be true acclaim or peace for Israel. We must stay strong and keep Judaism/Israel alive

Anonymous,
October 21, 2013 4:49 AM

Fight it

I hear this line too often. Fight anti-semitism if you want to get rid of it. Those who perpetuate anti-semistism will continue if you let them.

(11)
anon,
October 20, 2013 5:42 PM

Unfortunately the hatred exists in Israel as well

Dear Hen,I applaud you on writing this article and on your honesty. I would like to point out two points that you have missed:- many Jews are also anti-Israel, often virulently, - it seems to me that you also need to educate the Israeli left that lives in some kind of land of make belief. I would be interested to know how your friends in Meretz have reacted to your change of heart. In any case, kol hakavod and keep up the good work. (And yes I am blessed to live in Eretz Hakodesh).

(10)
Tzippy,
October 20, 2013 5:36 PM

when we get to comfortable in exile

Anti-Semitism rears its head when we get too comfortable in exile and try to assimilate and become "like the gentiles." It is G-d's way of reminding us that we are different.

p.s. I am not a bigot saying anything against non-Jews. There are many righteous non-Jews who serve G-d in truth. I am simply saying that G-d made Gentiles as Gentiles, and Jews as Jews, and we have different purposes in this world - both to serve G-d. And Jews have to remember that and not try to assimilate.

In any case, look in history - Every Single Time that Jews have tried to assimilate, G-d sends anti-Semitism to remind us to keep yearning and praying for messiah and return to Zion. Anti-Semitism is a "hidden blessing" because without it we would have assimilated and disappeared as a nation - much like all of the ancient empires of history. (ex. In Germany before WW2, the Jews said "Who needs Zion, Berlin is our Jerusalem.")

Yes Han, you are right that we have to stand up and stand behind our land - and we also have to stand up and stand behind our heritage!

Daniel,
October 20, 2013 7:51 PM

Agree With Tzippy 100%

I agree with Tzippy that resurgence of Anti-Semitism in the galut (exile) is a wake-up call from HaShem. What will it take to convince most [religious] American Jews to make ALIYAH!?! I am afraid that the pain [anti-Semitism] will have to become horrific before that happens though.

(9)
Anonymous,
October 20, 2013 5:24 PM

Where do you want them to go?

the original Palestinian residents, I mean?

Rafi,
October 20, 2013 7:56 PM

Stay home.

They were no more "original" than Jewish Palestinians. 78% of the Turkish province of Palestine was sectioned of after being conquered by Britain in WW1 and turned into an exclusively Arab Palestinian state from which all Jewish Palestinians were barred as they are to this day. Britan was then given the mandate by the League of nations to create in the remaining 22% a home for Palestine's Jews and their kin. This mandate was violated, and in fact hundreds of thousands of Arabs from the surrounding Arab countries - that is, full citizens of those countries, migrated with British encouragement to the area set aside for Palestine's Jews. In 1948 after many ran away at the instruction of the attacking Arab arlies under General Glubb so as not to be in the way of the fighting, and assuming they would return to a Jew-free area, they were stuck outside the borders of Israel which was not defeated. You ask where they should go. They are mostly not alive any more, so you are presumably talking about their great-grandchildren, people living in the place of their birth. Answer: stay home, or go to the Arab Palestinian State founded in 1920: Jordan.

Alan S.,
October 20, 2013 8:15 PM

I hope I understand your question, because you give it no context. Are you responding to the author when he asked this question himself? Or are you speaking of the Arafat so-called Palestinians? Or, are you speaking of anyone who lived on the land at the time of Israel's creation? I certainly don't speak as an expert, but I believe that from the day of its creation, Israel has asked anyone that lived on the land to continue to do so. The BDS fallacy is their belief that the Jews -- the original settlers of the land -- have no rights to the land. The Jews are where they belong.

Avrahm,
October 20, 2013 8:20 PM

where do you want them to go?

What ever country they came from.There is no Palestinian language,food, culture ect,,Besides their hatred for Jews,whose G-d given land they want,makes it impossible for co existence to ever take place.

dennis,
October 20, 2013 9:09 PM

I want them to go to your house!

I want you to take the arab muslims into your house, "anonymous". Then you can feed and clothe them while they teach their kids that allah wants them to suicide bomb you. You should also give them a substantial amount of your money every month. Then, when they demand 100% ownership of your house, you should move out and give it to them. If you don't do exactly what I just said, then you are heartless and evil.

Edan,
October 21, 2013 6:59 AM

There are 22 Arab countries, and 50 Muslim countries.

Pick one. The one your ancestors invaded Israel from will be sufficient.

(8)
Gloria,
October 20, 2013 4:37 PM

Same in Western Canada

Thank you for this article. I am Roman Catholic and I have Jewish friends who forward BDS petition emails to me on an academic list. I am against the BDS movement, but do not want to lose my Jewish friends over this issue, so I don't discuss it with them. I cannot understand why a Jew would support the movement and go so far as to solicit others like myself to support it. I wish I had some way of convincing my Jewish friends of the errors in their thinking.

Rafi Bezalel,
October 21, 2013 2:56 PM

Inform them

Tell them and teach them that modern Jewish History has nothing in it to cause Jews embarrasment. Your Jewish friends, like millions around the world, have been misinformed. Ask them to explain why there are over one mmillion Arabs living as full citizens of Israel. Ask them what they think Isrsel should have done each time she was invaded - what response would have caused your friends to be less embarrased than Istsel's response of self-defense. Ask them if their Arab friends have expressed similar frustrations with Arab countries who expelled almost one million Jews who had live in those countries for over a thousand years. Make them think .

(7)
anonymous,
October 20, 2013 4:34 PM

right on

Yes, unfortunately you are correct. Sometimes I question whether American Jewry are even salvageable. This may be the beginning of the end of the American Jewish Golden Age a la Spanish Jewry. I think this type of re-education should be conducted among the Israeli left too.

Anonymous,
October 21, 2013 4:44 AM

A la Spanish Jewry?

It sounds nice but there was no Golden Age in Spain for the Jews. The golden age is a myth, a story written by the maures. Under the Maures, they were second class citizens who had to pay a tax for protection or convert to Islam. Prior to that they could have been like the Jews in America, but I observed that the Jews in America do not get too much respect despite their contributions to education, science, music...and in the end, they are against Israel to be accepted, they are weakened by the same people they want so much to please. they go as far as extending their assistance, financial and other to any other group except their own. I do not think that re-education to those in america or the Israeli left is sufficient, they need to take a 40-year walk in Sinai to be free

(6)
Tone Lechtzier,
October 20, 2013 4:29 PM

All I have met...

Shalom, I'm an old disabled Jewish hermit, by the Grace of HaShem, gifted to live in the central Oregon high desert.In five years that I have been here, all are, and have been most kind, providing with gifts of no cost spots to live in my vintage trailer, food, clothing, gifts of money, work, shopping, errands,and love.I am honored to be born Jewish, and always spread HaShems flame. Naturally, there was one exception, but it never became verbal. Most have been in awe meeting a Jew, especially in a community of " rough & ready " ranchers and farmers. Most are Christians and Catholics. One retired IDF soldier gave me gelt. [ may they all be blessed ]I don't doubt the article at all. It seems a majority of us are easily influenced and controlled. Some times with "bait",or, by force. Outright lies are difficult to counter. The focal point is usually the leaders / source. However, those that enable the agenda are just as guilty. It seems, most are unable to think for them selfs.Han, I stand with you in support of Israel, and commend your efforts, may HaShem bless you.

With Blessings ~ B"H ~ Tone

(5)
JJ,
October 20, 2013 4:18 PM

Nothing New

Anti-Semitism never disappears. Some decades it just rears its head more. But it's always there waiting...

Lisa,
October 20, 2013 11:07 PM

Right, why are surprised??

I live in a huge Jewish community & never heard of BDS...We need informed people like you to speak to all neighborhoods....thanks!

(4)
Inbar,
October 20, 2013 3:37 PM

unaware but reacting to this

Many people are consciously unaware of this anti-semitism. some of them are afraid and unwilling to know. Unconsciously, they know it and are reacting to it.

Many Jews try to assimilate to escape hatred of Jews, as happened in Europe before. Very high assimilation encourages hatred of Jews. Some Jews become Jew-haters themselves. Such self-hatred will not save them, as they are still regarded as Jews.

There is only one answer that works; be Jews publicly, defend Israel, go to live in Israel, and do not fear our opponents. There is only One Power in existence, and that is Hashem, Israels Protector.

It is time for us to go home to Israel. It is the safest place in the world for Jews. The best place in the world! Hashem proved His Power again with the recent war. Kippat Barzel worked because Hashem protects His people, as He has for thousands of years.

Wake up, and take action!

(3)
Anonymous,
October 20, 2013 3:35 PM

The Occupation

Peter Beinart is among several observers who have warned that The Occupation and several sets of rights for the inhabitants of the land between the Jordan and the Mediterranean is continuing to erode support for Israel, an erosion that started after the 1967 war and continues among North Americans, and Jews in particular. There has to be more effort to reach a compromise with the Palestinian Authority. As for Hamas-ruled Gaza, I have no answer except setting the example in the West Bank.

Anonymous,
October 20, 2013 8:23 PM

Please understand that that can Israel has long desired to compromise. I personally believe in a 2-state solution. However, the PA in the West Bank will not compromise. Period. Now, what about this can you not understand? As for your comment about setting an example in the West Bank, just yesterday the Hamas-ruled leaders of Gaza declared their desire for an escalation of terror and for building an Islamic state on all the lands of Israel. A lot of compromise can be accomplished here.

(2)
Anonymous,
October 20, 2013 2:31 PM

to Win the War for Israel on Campus activism... see this article

Win the War for Israel on Campus activism... see this articleGo to www.smartjew.blogspot.co.il and click on the articleHow to Win the Campus Activism War go on the Offensive!..

(1)
shoshana,
October 20, 2013 1:59 PM

american jewish establishement

there is nothing new under the sun. a couple of weeks ago mishpacha magazine featured an article about the 1943 delegation of 400 rabbis to the white house , to implore pres. Roosevelt to do something to save the Jews of Europe. he didn't even receive them and left through a back exit upon advice he received from the american jewish establishment, who thought the exotic looking rabbis were undignified and didn't want more Jews in the U.S. because their "foreignness" might reflect badly on their dignified own selves. after that 4 million more Jews were killed. beyond disgusting. and they haven't learned a thing.

I live in rural Montana where the Cholov Yisrael milk is difficult to obtain and very expensive. So I drink regular milk. What is your view on this?

The Aish Rabbi Replies:

Jewish law requires that there be rabbinic supervision during the milking process to ensure that the milk comes from a kosher animal. In the United States, many people rely on the Department of Agriculture's regulations and controls as sufficiently stringent to fulfill the rabbinic requirement for supervision.

Most of the major Kashrut organizations in the United States rely on this as well. You will therefore find many kosher products in America certified with a 'D' next to the kosher symbol. Such products – unless otherwise specified on the label – are not Cholov Yisrael and are assumed kosher based on the DOA's guarantee.

There are many, however, do not rely on this, and will eat only dairy products that are designated as Cholov Yisrael (literally, "Jewish milk"). This is particularly true in large Jewish communities, where Cholov Yisrael is widely available.

Rabbi Moshe Feinstein wrote that under limited conditions, such as an institution which consumes a lot of milk and Cholov Yisrael is generally unavailable or especially expensive, American milk is acceptable, as the government supervision is adequate to prevent non-kosher ingredients from being added.

It should be added that the above only applies to milk itself, which is marketed as pure cow's milk. All other dairy products, such as cheeses and butter, may contain non-kosher ingredients and always require kosher certification. In addition, Rabbi Feinstein's ruling applies only in the United States, where government regulations are considered reliable. In other parts of the world, including Europe, Cholov Yisrael is a requirement.

There are additional esoteric reasons for being stringent regarding Cholov Yisrael, and because of this it is generally advisable to consume only Cholov Yisroel dairy foods.

In 1889, 800 Jews arrived in Buenos Aires, marking the birth of the modern Jewish community in Argentina. These immigrants were fleeing poverty and pogroms in Russia, and moved to Argentina because of its open door policy of immigration. By 1920, more than 150,000 Jews were living in Argentina. Juan Peron's rise to power in 1946 was an ominous sign, as he was a Nazi sympathizer with fascist leanings. Peron halted Jewish immigration to Argentina, introduced mandatory Catholic religious instruction in public schools, and allowed Argentina to become a haven for fleeing Nazis. (In 1960, Israeli agents abducted Adolf Eichmann from a Buenos Aires suburb.) Today, Argentina has the largest Jewish community in Latin America with 250,000, though terror attacks have prompted many young people to emigrate. In 1992, the Israeli Embassy in Buenos Aires was bombed, killing 32 people. In 1994, the Jewish community headquarters in Buenos Aires was bombed, killing 85 people. The perpetrators have never been apprehended.

Be aware of what situations and behaviors give you pleasure. When you feel excessively sad and cannot change your attitude, make a conscious effort to take some action that might alleviate your sadness.

If you anticipate feeling sad, prepare a list of things that might make you feel better. It could be talking to a specific enthusiastic individual, running, taking a walk in a quiet area, looking at pictures of family, listening to music, or reading inspiring words.

While our attitude is a major factor in sadness, lack of positive external situations and events play an important role in how we feel.

[If a criminal has been executed by hanging] his body may not remain suspended overnight ... because it is an insult to God (Deuteronomy 21:23).

Rashi explains that since man was created in the image of God, anything that disparages man is disparaging God as well.

Chilul Hashem, bringing disgrace to the Divine Name, is one of the greatest sins in the Torah. The opposite of chilul Hashem is kiddush Hashem, sanctifying the Divine Name. While this topic has several dimensions to it, there is a living kiddush Hashem which occurs when a Jew behaves in a manner that merits the respect and admiration of other people, who thereby respect the Torah of Israel.

What is chilul Hashem? One Talmudic author stated, "It is when I buy meat from the butcher and delay paying him" (Yoma 86a). To cause someone to say that a Torah scholar is anything less than scrupulous in meeting his obligations is to cause people to lose respect for the Torah.

Suppose someone offers us a business deal of questionable legality. Is the personal gain worth the possible dishonor that we bring not only upon ourselves, but on our nation? If our personal reputation is ours to handle in whatever way we please, shouldn't we handle the reputation of our nation and the God we represent with maximum care?

Jews have given so much, even their lives, for kiddush Hashem. Can we not forego a few dollars to avoid chilul Hashem?

Today I shall...

be scrupulous in all my transactions and relationships to avoid the possibility of bringing dishonor to my God and people.

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